Whenever traveling by air, one of the first tasks of the flight attendants is to cover the safety features of the aircraft. Always emphasized is the importance of applying oxygen to yourself before helping others, in the event the aircraft loses cabin pressure. In other words, take care of yourself first, so that you are able help others. After all, you will be no good to others, if you yourself are incapacitated.

The same concept can be applied to sharing our Catholic faith. Have you learned and applied the teachings of the Church in your own life so that you are prepared to share the faith with others? Or are you incapacitated when challenged with the various elements of Catholic teachings? Are you prepared to answer cultural issues of our time including the Church’s position on abortion, cohabitation, and gay “marriage”? Or are you silent when questioned?

We are Catholic. We live in a time of cultural confusion. In order to be a witness of the Gospel of Christ, we must know the teachings of the Church, live according to the teachings of the Church, and be prepared to share these teachings with others. Just like on an aircraft with a loss of cabin pressure, we must first take care of ourselves so that we are in a position to help others.

Ponder: What elements of the faith do you have the most difficulty defending?

Reflect: Acts 3:6

Pray: Heavenly Father, help me to know and love you more and more each day by growing in my knowledge of the faith.